Usman Baba, immediate past inspector-general of police (IGP), has expressed his conviction that he left the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in a better state than he met it when he assumed office in 2021.
Speaking at the handover ceremony in Abuja on Wednesday, Baba handed over to Kayode Egbetokun, the newly-appointed acting Inspector-General of Police.
Baba emphasized that upon his appointment, he had embarked on a mission to transform the policing narrative in Nigeria by outlining a comprehensive vision and mission objectives.
He made a commitment to address the welfare concerns of both serving and retired officers, as well as enhance the operational capabilities of the force through the acquisition of critical operational assets.
Furthermore, Baba outlined his efforts to reposition various special detachments within the force, including the marine and air wings, special forces, police mobile force, counterterrorism unit, and special protection unit.
He also mentioned his focus on strengthening the intelligence capacity of the force through the upgrade of technical intelligence assets, particularly the push for cam scanner technology.
“As I exit the leadership of the force today, I believe that I am leaving it better than I met it. I believe that I have added value to policing in Nigeria, Baba said.
“I am convinced that steady progress has been made in all components of my promise to change policing narratives and restore the dwindling police primacy within the internal security architecture of the country.
“We might not be there yet, but certainly the pathways have been clearly defined; a firm foundation built, and giant strides taken.
“These are for the new leadership to leverage in the quest for a better police force.”
Baba expressed his gratitude to the force for their loyalty, sacrifice, and commitment to duty, which he believed had enabled his administration to achieve most of its leadership objectives.
“I specially thank members of the force management team for being strategic partners all through my leadership journey,’’ he said.
In response, the newly-appointed acting Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, expressed his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the confidence placed in him.
He considered his appointment as a call to dedication and an opportunity to make a difference in the shared mission of ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerians.
Egbetokun pledged to lead the force with a commitment to excellence, transparency, and accountability, with the aim of rebuilding public trust.
He emphasized the importance of restoring public confidence in law enforcement institutions and creating a Nigeria where every citizen feels safe, protected, and respected.
Furthermore, Egbetokun promised to introduce new strategies to unleash the potential of the police force in securing the country and fostering lasting peace.
With the handover completed, Nigerians eagerly await the actions and initiatives of the new acting Inspector-General of Police as he assumes his leadership role within the force.
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